Entry Description: Previously an office building and then an art institute, the project has been adapted, again, as a new culture center for the religious institution of Soka Gakkai International. Previously coined the “Darth Vader building” for its dark and brooding appearance, the client sought a building transformation that would be light, inviting and reflective of their mission statement.
Our response was to paint the existing masonry an off white color that appears to virtually change relative to the time of day. Located along a fast street, the architecture also responds to this movement by implementing a vertical louver wood wall that undulates as one passes by.
The façade carries through to a re-invented public entry and atrium space with skylights that craft natural light deep into the multi-function rooms and lead a procession to the main worship space at the second floor.